Abigail is one of the women in the Bible, with rich lessons to teach and wisdom to glean from.
Her story is in 1 Samuel 25: 1 – end.
Her story teaches us how to handle any difficult relationship. Whether it is a relationship with an employer, an associate, a colleague, a child, a mentor, a mentee, a spouse, or a family member, it’s the same principle and it can be applied for success.
1 Samuel 25:3 [KJV] Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.
Emotional intelligence, people management, and good understanding were virtues that Abigail possessed. Abigail had a good understanding of herself, her husband, her situation, and her household.
Our focus is not on Nabal’s behavior but on her ability to beautifully manage and navigate the situation.
It is our year of supernatural growth and our emphasis should be growing in the fruit of the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-23 [KJV] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
The more we learn to develop the fruits of the Spirit, the better our relationships will be even if the persons are “churlish and evil in their doings” like Nabal
We can see her good understanding being displayed in her attitudes, speech, actions, and the quality of her inner life.
Her good understanding helped her to know the times and seasons and how to salvage a situation that would have led to the murder of every life associated with Nabal, both young and old.
The story of Abigail is not just for wives but also for men, who want to know how to manage people. People are ladders, especially those relationships God brought into your life.
Don’t discard people because of offenses and unforgiveness. You need to understand that not every man has developed fully in the fruit of the Spirit. They might just be the help you need at certain junctions in your life.
There are some things we have control over and some we don’t have control over. You don’t have control over other people’s behavior but you have control over your attitudes.
It’s all about how you react when others treat you badly.
Being married to Nabal was a lot, but Abigail was a woman who had a good understanding.
Isaiah 11:2 tells us that the Holy Spirit is the spirit of wisdom and understanding.
I pray the Holy Spirit will impact our lives with Good understanding in Jesus’ mighty name amen
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death.” Proverbs 14:12 (NIV)
Have you ever been in a relationship where everything seems to be okay on the surface, but there is just this little voice inside you that says something is not right? Maybe you have been in it for so long, that everything is going smoothly, and you stopped questioning it.
Have you asked yourself; Is this the person God has for me? It’s so easy to get into the flow and move with it.
A biblical account that beautifully illustrated how God’s choice often defies human expectation was when Samuel thought Eliab was the perfect choice for a king because he had the look, the stature, and the presence. But God saw differently: “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
This story reminds us that good is not always God’s best. Like Samuel, we must learn to trust God’s wisdom over our perceptions. Instead of making decisions based on what seems right, we should seek God’s guidance, knowing that His choice will always be greater than our expectations.
Life has a way of presenting us with this picture-perfect view of choices to make in life. Sometimes, in relationships, friendships, or even career paths, we meet people who often seem to be everything that we would have prayed for: kind, loving, responsible, and even God-fearing. But then, as time unfolds, we really get to find out that just because they are a good person does not make them the right person. The difference is found in the divine alignment.
A good person can have great qualities, but the right person is someone God has specifically aligned with your destiny. The right person won’t just make you happy, they will help you grow into the person God has called you to be (Jeremiah 29:11).
Sometimes, we get caught up in our own checklist of what we think we need, but God’s plan is always bigger and better than our expectations. A good person may be kind and loving, but if they’re not meant to walk your journey with you, they could slow you down instead of helping you move forward. Perhaps the clearest sign of all, while a good person may seem perfect on paper, the right person will bring a deep, unshakable peace in your spirit that only God can give (Colossians 3:15).
Good isn’t always God. Just because something looks perfect doesn’t mean it’s meant for you. What seems right in your eyes may not be what’s best for your future. Instead of chasing what looks good, seek what is God-ordained. Pray, listen, and trust His leading because His choice is always better than yours.
Time doesn’t really make things better; what happens IN time is what has the power to change the course of actions.
So, if the enemy has stolen from your life, marriage, family, and career last year, he will come to take another this year. Don’t think that the passage of time from 2024 to 2025 will stop him from taking another. He will come for another!
“Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread.”Acts 12:2-3 [NKJV]
Herod had killed James, and you would think that was enough and that time would make him stop. It didn’t. When he was done with James, he went for Peter! And had he been able to deal with Peter, he would have gone for another. And then another. And another… until there was none left.
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” John 10:10 [NKJV]
But the church stopped that from happening—they stopped the enemy from taking another. How?
“Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. Acts 12:5 [KJV]
Prayer was made without ceasing. What changed the narrative was what the church did in time—they made constant prayers.
In this season, things will spiral into more mess if you don’t step in and stop the flow. The enemy will take another if you don’t step in and stop the flow. More things will go wrong in your marriage if you don’t step in and stop the flow. Your life will get worse if you don’t arise and stop the flow.
It’s that year that we arise and declare, “No more!”
Single or married, we are all believing that God will bless the work of our hands. God is interested in doing this, especially when that work of our hands is in alignment with His purpose for our lives both here and eternally.
The best place we can enjoy God’s blessings is when we are right at the center of His will and purpose for our lives!
The scriptures say here:
Deu 28:12 (KJV) The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.
There is a good treasure of God that can be closed or opened. There needs to be cooperation between heaven and earth wherein the land in its season gets rain given from heaven.
The blessing of the work of our hands can be exemplified in the reality of being a victor and not a victim, where you can be the owner of a loan-giving company and not owe several loan sharks who keep calling friends and families with threats.
All of these dynamics can be found in just one verse! This verse needs to be studied, as a panacea to lack and poverty, as a way out of famine!
We all know the chief cause of famine can be a lack of rain, right?
Let’s take a look at another transition.
Deu 28:12 (MSG) GOD will throw open the doors of his sky vaults and pour rain on your land on schedule and bless the work you take in hand. You will lend to many nations but you yourself won’t have to take out a loan.
Hey! He will pour out rain on your land on schedule!
Isn’t that powerful?
You will lend to nations and won’t have to take a loan!
A good prayer here is this:
Lord, throw open the sky vaults and pour rain on my land in Jesus’ name!
I have learnt over time, that there are certain blessings you don’t have to pray for. The scriptures rightly tell us what to do if we want these blessings activated in our lives, finances, and relationships. One of such blessings is the blessing of longevity.
Long life comes from honoring one’s parents.
Eph 6:1-3 [NLT] Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. “Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise:If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
So rather than praying for a long life, focus on honoring your parents- biological and spiritual.
Likewise, the blessing of favor has an instruction attached.
Ps 5:12 [ESV] For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield.
This simply means for you to be favored, you have to be righteous. It’s as simple as that. You cannot be living in sin and expect the favor of God to rest upon you.
Let’s see how this verse is explained in another translation
Ps 5:12 [AMPC] For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
A life of compromise cannot attract the favor of God.
Look at Joseph. What made him favored in the prison? It was his life of righteousness that God saw and decided to show him favor.
Gen 39:21 [KJV] But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
While it is good to pray for the favor of God, it is better to lead a life of righteousness.
Marriage is an institution created by God for a purpose. It’s one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. This is a world where emotions run high and destiny calls, but many singles still find themselves asking if they should marry for love or purpose.
Genesis 2:18 (NIV) The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
The scripture gave us a reason why it is not good for a man to be alone which is why it said He will make him a helper suitable for him. The gospel truth is that love and purpose work together and every destiny decision must have a strong WHY.
The first thing Adam saw in Eve was her beauty. He was blown away and immediately gave her the name WOMAN. When he was to name the animals that God created, God had to give the instructions, but when he saw his wife, his purpose to oversee, to be fruitful and to multiply began to flow effortlessly, which made him name Eve immediately. Even though he was asleep when she was created out of his ribs, he got her name at first sight and followed through with sweet lines.
Genesis 2:23 (NIV)The man said, This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh, she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.”
There has to be a complementation between you and your spouse that allows you to flow naturally in the fulfillment of your purpose with deep love.
So, leaving purpose out for love does not balance with the equation of God.
Here are reasons you should marry for love and purpose.
1. Love without purpose is risky
Love is a powerful force. It makes your heart race, gives you butterflies, and makes you believe in forever. But love alone is not enough to sustain a marriage. Feelings can be fleeting, and what happens when life gets hard? You will no longer feel the excitement you once had. When you make love a choice, your WHYs will reflect and you will be able to sustain better than relying on the feelings of love alone.
Proverbs 19:21 (NIV) “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Marriage without purpose is like a car without fuel. It may look good on the outside, but it won’t go far.
2. Purpose without love is a struggle
On the other hand, marrying only for purpose, whether it’s for ministry, business, or societal expectations without genuine love can feel like a job instead of a joyful union. If you choose a partner just because they align with your calling but lack deep affection, your marriage may feel forced and duty-bound rather than fulfilling.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV) “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Purpose alone won’t carry you through the days when you need warmth, affection, and deep emotional connection.
3. Balance love with purpose
The best marriages are those where love and purpose align. Love brings joy, intimacy, and companionship, while purpose gives direction, meaning, and a shared vision. God’s design for marriage is not just about romance or function, it’s about a divine partnership that glorifies Him.
Before saying “I do,” ask yourself:
● Does this person truly love me, not just in words but in action?
● Do we share the same spiritual and life purpose?
● Will our marriage honor God and advance His kingdom?
God’s plan for marriage includes love, partnership, and purpose to work together. If you marry only for love, you may wake up one day wondering why you’re together. If you marry only for purpose, you might feel emotionally disconnected and unfulfilled.
It’s only when love and purpose meet that you experience a marriage that is not only joyful but also God-ordained. So, love and the tendency of your purpose fulfillment have to be found in the person you’re choosing for marriage.
A cheerful disposition is such a potent experience that it cannot be taken lightly.
It is the environment in which God thrives.
On the other hand, the devil thrives in an atmosphere of sadness, depression, and despondency.
Pro 17:22 (MSG) A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.
Gloom and pessimism can have a detrimental impact on one’s well-being.
Which of these two emotions would you prefer: joy or sadness?
I know you would choose joy.
The joy of the Lord is your strength!
As unmarried individuals, experiencing sadness or unhappiness during a particular season of life would only exacerbate those circumstances.
Instead, cultivate a state of joy, as it is the source of your inherent strength and resilience.
Let’s take a look at other translations.
Pro 17:22 (AMPC) A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.
A happy mood is like taking the right medicine. It works wonders, as the Bible says.
Whether you’re single or in a relationship, make it a habit to find something funny to laugh about every day.
If you’ve been struggling to find the humor in things, here are a few ideas that might help:
Try to find something funny to laugh about every day.
How do you do that?
1. Schedule Laughing Time:
Make time each day to watch a funny movie, read a hilarious book, or play a game that makes you laugh.
2. Find the Humor:
Laugh at yourself and find the humor in everyday situations.
3. Be Playful:
Let loose and have some fun together! Engage in playful activities and games that bring laughter and joy to your relationship.
Did you know that sharing laughter can release oxytocin, the “love hormone”? It makes us feel attached and close to others, especially if you are already married. So, next time you’re feeling stressed or upset, try laughing about it and feeling the joy!
Have you ever prayed about something and then you imagine exactly how God should answer? Thinking, “He’ll do it this way, at this time, and everything will fall perfectly into place.” But then, nothing happens, or worse, God shows up in a way that feels completely opposite to what you expected. Frustrating, right? That was exactly how Naaman felt.
Naaman’s story teaches a valuable lesson. When prophet Elisha told him to wash in the River Jordan seven times, he was offended. Why? Because it didn’t align with how he thought God would work. Naaman expected a grand display of Elisha calling on God, waving his hand, and instantly healing him. Instead, the solution was simple and humbling.
How often do we do the same? We pray, but deep down, we’ve already imagined how God should answer. Maybe it’s healing, provision, or finding the right partner, and we’ve mapped out exactly how it should happen. Then, when God doesn’t follow our plan, we are disappointed, frustrated, or even offended.
But here is the truth. God’s ways are not ours, and His thoughts are far above ours as recorded in Isaiah 55:8. Like Naaman, we need to let go of our expectations and trust that God knows best. His instructions may seem unconventional, and His timing may stretch our patience, but His plans for us are always good (Jeremiah 29:11).
Are you waiting for God to send the right person, but it feels like the wait is too long? God is asking you to work on your character first. Perhaps in marriage, the journey looks nothing like the dream you envisioned. Whatever the case, always remember that God’s instructions may not always make sense to us, but obedience brings breakthroughs.
Naaman was only healed when he humbled himself and followed God’s word, even though it was not what he expected. In the same way, our blessings often lie on the other side of trust and surrender to God.
So today, let go of the“how” and“when.” Stop trying to control the process. Trust His plan, obey His word, and believe wholeheartedly that He has good things in store for you.
Storms are a part of life. They are inevitable. It’s either you have just faced a storm, you are presently facing one or you will face a storm in the near future. Storms are also called challenges. As believers, God wants us to face and overcome whatever storms life throws at us because He has equipped us. Victory comes after overcoming challenges, and that’s where we get the crown.
In life, no one ever gets a crown without overcoming something.
There are, however, strategies for overcoming our peculiar storm. Storms may come in the form of financial difficulties, barrenness, health issues, misunderstanding, etc.
Let’s look at the scripture
Isaiah 40:31 [KJV] But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.
God wants us to be like eagles that soar when the wind is contrary. The eagle does not flap its wings to fly but uses the wind to its advantage to soar.
This singular ability distinguishes the eagle from all other birds. It’s the ability to soar.
But the secret to soaring above whatever challenges we may be facing is our ability to wait on the Lord.
Waiting on the Lord is not worrying, it’s not complaining, it’s not thinking about problems, it’s not crying, it’s not getting depressed. It is spending (by discipline) quality time praying in the spirit and worshipping God, then He gives us the supernatural ability to soar above the storm.
Don’t concentrate on the storm. Take your eyes off the storm. The storm was mentioned once. So the focus should be on you. You mount up with wings as eagles, you, run and are not weary…
As you focus on yourself and what the Holy Spirit can do in and through you, you begin to receive strength, strategies, wisdom, and divine favour and before long, you will overcome whatever challenges life throws at you.
There is no shortcut to a life of victory. It is a praying life. Jesus said, “Men ought to Pray always”. Praying in the Spirit or praying in tongues works like magic. It generates miraculous power that the devil cannot master.
I encourage you to do this and victory is on the other side of the storm.
A snare is a device or trap employed to capture or confine an animal against its will. Historically, fowlers (bird hunters) utilized snares to capture birds.
In Psalm 124:7-8, the term “snare” is employed metaphorically to convey a situation characterized by peril, oppression, or confinement.
Psa 124:7-8 (AMPC) We are like a bird escaped from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped! [8] Our help is in the name of the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.
The psalmist is comparing God’s rescue to a bird escaping from a hunter’s snare.
In a broader sense, the snare can represent any kind of trap, temptation, or bondage. The passage expresses gratitude for God’s deliverance and protection.
Guess what? This is exactly your story!
You’ve escaped!
Not only did you escape, but the trap was invalidated, rendered useless, null, and void!
You’re free!
Jesus has done something incredible for you and me. We’ve been freed from all sorts of traps, temptations, and bondages! Praise be to God!
You’re meant to live a triumphant life, not a defeated one like you’re still trapped!
And guess what? The next verse says your help comes from the Lord!
Live in the reality of the help that God has given you.
In your relationship and marriage, celebrate what God has done for you!
Soar like an eagle and don’t get caught up in the messes of this world.
We have a similar promise in Psalm 91, which says the same thing we have in God!
Psa 91:3 (KJV) Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
Effective immediately, embrace the reality of that freedom and accept all the divine assistance that God bestows upon you in the name of Jesus.
It’s just amazing how we are not intentional in curating the right atmosphere for our children to grow in. We end up raising children that will become a pain to us in the future. Listen, the atmosphere in which a child grows is important. A child that grows in an atmosphere of love will be full of love.
A home always filled with anger, shouting, physical abuse, etc. will raise a child who is damaged, regardless of what you tell that child. This is because children learn more from what they see than from what they are told. They learn more from YOUR SHOWING than from YOUR TELLING. If your showing is wrong, just keep your telling to yourself, because it’s your showing that will mold them.
So, what are you showing your kids?
Sometimes we deceive ourselves that children don’t see and know what’s going on. I came bearing new news today: they know! They see! They hear!
Dear husband and wife, what are you playing before your kids? Remember the sheep of Jacob? They eventually gave birth to that which they constantly looked upon (Genesis 30:37-39). As your children behold your relationship with each other, you’re molding something in them and that’s what they will give birth to in their lives. So, your marriage is not just about you and your spouse; it has a great impact on your children.
Dear singles, as you’re searching for a spouse, please have your children in mind. Go for a spouse who will help you in creating the right atmosphere for your children to grow in. Go for a spouse that will be the right example for your children. That man you’re considering, if your son becomes exactly like him, will that be okay? I just said to ask o…
The story of Abraham and Isaac, as they journey together to offer the sacrifice as commanded by God, is instructive. They get to a point in their journey and Isaac asks,
“…Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Genesis 22:7 KJV
Isaac must have been pondering on this for a long time. I’ve SEEN my father many times make sacrifices. There’s always the wood, the fire, and the lamb. What’s going on here now? Where is the lamb for the sacrifice?
The point is this: Isaac knew the rudiments of a sacrifice because he had been following his dad and watching him. Abraham was SHOWING.
The mind is a powerful tool, and the devil often uses it to attack God’s children. You may have good intentions, but with a poor mindset or negative thoughts, your journey as a believer can be hindered. This is why the Bible says,
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).
When you surrender to Christ, it’s not just about leaving the past behind, but also about upgrading your mindset. Let go of toxic thoughts and vibes that’ve been holding you back, whether from past experiences or bad influences. A renewed mind is key to your faith journey – it’s where the real transformation happens, shaping your thoughts and actions
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
To establish some clarity, there are two primary types of mindsets: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset:
Fixed Mindset: Resistant to change, clings to old patterns, and struggles to embrace renewal.
Growth Mindset: Welcomes transformation, is open to new possibilities, and is eager to grow spiritually.
The growth mindset is the one God desires for His children to embrace.
Five Practical Ways to Renew Your Mind as a Child of God
1. Build a Personal Relationship with God
Ask yourself, How close am I to God? If it takes you a moment to answer this question, it’s a sign to get closer. Strengthen your relationship with God through a consistent prayer life.
“Come near to God and He will come near to you” (James 4:8).
2. Read and Meditate on the Word of God
Quiet time is sacred. It’s when you spend intentional time with God, meditating on His Word and allowing the Holy Spirit to interpret it to you.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).
3. Guard Your Mind Against Negative Influences
The mind is powerful, but it can only produce what you feed it. Be intentional about what you watch, read, and listen to.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23).
4. Think Positively and Block Out Negativity
Refuse to be swayed by the noise of the world. Fix your eyes on Jesus, who is the author and finisher of your faith.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable. If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
5. Be Thankful and Take Confessions Daily
Gratitude unlocks God’s blessings and helps you focus on His goodness in your life. Speak confessions that align with God’s Word to upgrade your mindset.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Renewing your mind is a daily process that requires dedication and intentionality. Don’t just be a child of God by words, but let your thoughts, actions, and mindset reflect His glory. As you commit to this journey, remember that the Holy Spirit is your helper. He will guide you and transform you into the likeness of Christ.
In this generation, it appears that physical attributes, or simply put beauty, are the primary factors considered when choosing a spouse!
People go to such an extent that they use online and social media filters to alter their appearances and looks, creating an illusion for both the observer and the person being observed.
Well, the reality is that relying solely on outward appearance as the primary criterion is a recipe for disaster.
Let’s examine what the Bible suggests!
Gen 2:23 (KJV) And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
Bone of my bones.
Flesh of my flesh.
Bones, which lie within, symbolize the body’s structural foundation and inherent strength.
In contrast, flesh, which lies outside, serves as an external covering, protecting the underlying bone.
The scripture mentions the bones of my bones first, before the flesh of my flesh. This is deliberate and not a mere coincidence.
The bones will always hold greater significance than the flesh.
That which lies within, the structure that holds that handsome man or beautiful woman, that is their character, is of utmost importance.
Yes, I understand that you should marry the one you are attracted to.
Yes, beauty is important, but it should never be the sole criterion for offering something.
Pro 11:22 (MSG) Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful face on an empty head.
Yes, you read that correctly!
The image of a gold ring in a pig’s snout is jarring and incongruous, starkly contrasting the outward beauty with the inner emptiness.
A beautiful face (outer beauty) is meaningless if the person lacks inner qualities such as wisdom, kindness, and character (inner substance).
Don’t judge people based solely on their physical looks. Instead, take the time to get to know their character and inner qualities.
Cultivate inner beauty as a single person. Focus on developing a beautiful inner life, which will eventually radiate outward and enhance your outward appearance.
We live in a world where standing up for what’s right can often lead to mockery. Staying chaste has suddenly become old-fashioned. Integrity is gradually disappearing from the body of Christ. I can only imagine the challenges Daniel must have faced from his people. They ridiculed him, laughing at his convictions and calling him foolish. They must have wondered who would reject the King’s food and wine.
Daniel and his companions were in a foreign land, victims of war. No pastors or fellowship coordinators were watching over them. No one would correct them if they strayed. No parents to guide or direct them in the place where they found themselves. They were far from home, far from their mentors and spiritual leaders, with nothing to lose.
Yet, the Bible tells us that Daniel made a firm decision in his heart to be different. He decided to uphold his foundation.
Daniel 1:8 (ERV) But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
It all begins in the heart. As we’ve heard before, no miracle happens on the altar. If you are bitter and selfish as a single person, marriage won’t change that—it will just magnify those traits. If your heart is not in the right place when you’re single, you’ll carry that same misalignment into marriage.
This is why Proverbs warns us about the “strange woman” and the “wicked man”, those whose lips speak deceitfulness. This is why you cannot allow “hot legs” or “deep voice” to be your leading factor in asking for or giving a YES. What is the state of his/her heart?
There will come a time when you’ll be far from the watchful eyes of those who usually guide and encourage you. A season will come when, like Daniel, you’ll be in unfamiliar territory. The question is: when that moment arrives, will you compromise, or will you stand firm in your values? Will the wind blow you away, because of a weak foundation?
Where you place your trust and who you trust matters significantly. It plays a crucial role in determining whether the “trust” will ultimately save you or not.
Men put their trust in different things and sources. But I love what the Bible says,
Psa 20:7-8 (KJV) Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. [8] They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
We are unlike those who rely on chariots or horses, but rather we will remember the name of our Lord, our God. In essence, our trust lies in the name of the Lord!
Isn’t that powerful?
That verse says they will be defeated, but because our trust is not in chariots or horses, but in the name of the Lord, we will rise and stand upright!
I can place my complete trust in Him in every aspect of my life, including relationships, weddings, marriage, jobs, careers, business, ministry, and all other areas.
Why should I place my trust in the name of the Lord? What is the assurance?
Let’s examine this.
Psa 28:7-8 (AMPC) The Lord is my Strength and my [impenetrable] Shield; my heart trusts in, relies on, and confidently leans on Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song will I praise Him. [8] The Lord is their [unyielding] Strength, and He is the Stronghold of salvation to [me] His anointed.
Wow! According to the scripture above, that strength is impenetrable and unyielding. Moreover, the scripture states that because I trust in Him, I am helped!
This year, God will indeed help you!
So much so that your heart will rejoice greatly!
You will praise Him in your songs because of the benefits you will accrue from trusting Him!
There is one key that I know works for every relationship. It works on the principle of being proactive rather than reactive.
When you are proactive, you are intentional, and that’s what we all have to do in our relationship. Every relationship has benefits to offer. God created man not to be an island but to leverage relationships in such a way that your weakness finds strength in the other person or partner.
Our relationships offer a complimentary advantage. One can only chase 1,000, while two will put 10,000 to flight.
Being proactive in relationships involves taking initiative, showing responsibility, and consistently making efforts to strengthen the bond. It also involves not allowing the weaknesses of others to determine your actions or feelings.
Many people have a hard time coping with the inadequacies of their partners. Their response to their partner is based on whatever their partner does.
Our response should be based on our core values, understanding of our purpose, and that of our relationship.
Anytime we are proactive rather than reactive, we become the bigger person- walking in love as against rendering evil for evil and tit for tat.
Let this be your rule in whatever relationship you are in.
The Song of Songs, a book of love and intimacy, opens with such profound lines that I would love to present to you today.
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: For thy LOVE IS BETTER THAN WINE.” Song of Solomon 1:2 KJV
This verse captures a strong intimacy between the bride and her groom. There was an intense desire for one another locked up in the hearts of these lovers. This verse should, however, not just be read with the physical sensual passion in mind, but with the wholistic view of intimacy. You can’t even achieve the highest pleasure on the bed as a couple if you are not intimate outside the bedroom. So intimacy goes beyond the activities in the bedroom.
Intimacy is about how he is thoughtful about you and things concerning you. Intimacy is about how you occupy her heart. Intimacy is in those cares and little acts of kindness. Intimacy is in how nothing else competes with you in his heart, where your love is indeed better than wine. Intimacy is in how you look out for one another. It’s in those random calls to say, “I was just thinking of you.”
My dear couples, do you have this burning intimacy between you and your spouse? No? Then it’s something to begin to strongly desire, pray for, and work toward. Marriage was designed for this kind of beauty.
My dear singles, that one professing love for and to you, do you really weigh in his/her heart? Or are you simply a makeshift? Are you Someone he/she is just settling for because age is no longer a friend? Wash your eyes and marry well, my dear.
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: For thy LOVE IS BETTER THAN WINE.”
Kai… I can’t seem to get over this. There is really something strong going on here.
What the bride was simply saying here is: Our love is intoxicating. Our love for each other is better than any other thing.
Their hearts were strongly locked in desire for one another.
Dear couple, don’t settle for less.
Not by constantly nagging your spouse, but by intentionally becoming an intimate partner while gently nudging your spouse. Plant that random kiss. Send that random text message that says “I care,” or “I’m thinking about you.” Be thoughtful and secretly buy that thing for your spouse and gift him/her.
Dear single, don’t settle for less.
Marriage is meant to be beautiful, so don’t settle for someone who doesn’t value you. Become that person who intentionally loves and doesn’t settle for one who is not. The LORD has someone amazing for you too; but if you don’t break up with the one occupying space, how will you receive the one God has for you?
God’s love for us is unconditional and immeasurable, yet it calls for a response. It is not just a gift to be received, but a call to action and a challenge to respond in a way that reflects His love.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Imagine the pain of loving someone deeply and passionately, only to have that love ignored or rejected. That’s the heartache God experiences when we fail to respond to His love. His sacrifice on the cross wasn’t just an act of mercy but an invitation to engage in a transformative relationship with Him.
How do we respond to such an overwhelming love?
1. By Leading a Life of Obedience
Loving God starts with obedience. Jesus says in
John 14:21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.
Obedience reflects our intimate relationship with God. When we know Him deeply, we wouldn’t want to hurt Him. On the contrary, disobedience reveals a lack of closeness. Loving God is more than just avoiding sin. It means living according to His will and reflecting His heart in our everyday actions.
2. By Honoring Him With Our Substance
Honor goes beyond words; it shows in how we give and prioritize God. Proverbs 3:9-10 teaches us to honor God with our wealth. Honoring God encompasses all areas of life, not just about money. Your time, talents, and resources should reflect your value for God. Honoring God also means respecting the spiritual leaders He has placed in your life (2 Chronicles 20:20).
3. By Glorifying Him Through Fruitfulness
God calls us to be fruitful.
John 15:8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
Fruitfulness is more than achievements; it’s living a life that points others to God. Our actions, character, and choices should bring Him glory, showing the world that we are His disciples.
Understanding how to respond to God’s love changes everything about us, including how we navigate relationships, whether single or married. We must not just acknowledge His love. We must live in a way that shows we have been changed by it.
Take a moment to reflect on how you are responding to His love today!
Four Destiny Questions You Should Ask Before Falling In Love
Life is a journey of destination that only God knows and understands its beginning and ending (Jeremiah 1:5). This is why you shouldn’t take your purpose discovery lightly; it is a determinant of the answers to your existence.
There’s a primary assignment that is committed to every individual on earth and that assignment is greater than the purpose that life offers after your arrival on earth (Ephesians 2:10).
Here are four destiny questions you should ask yourself:
1. Who am I?
The discovery of YOU is the awareness of what God has embedded into you. I want you to understand that everyone has a reason for being here. That reason is to propagate God and His work. So, take a deep breath and ask yourself, who am I? (1 John 3:1)
2. Why am I here?
Your existence on earth is never a mistake and if you’re an afterthought child, you’re still not a mistake because there’s a greater reason why you’re here; to compliment and fill up the space God has created for you. (Isaiah 43:21)
3. What is my purpose?
The moment a man gets to a stage in life and that big question pops up, the depth of your existence is about to be revealed. Purpose is the real intent of your creation and this can only be found in God. God is the revealer of our assignment on earth, so cling to Him and He will direct your paths (Jeremiah 29:11)
4. Where am I going from here?
There’s something we call CLARITY in the journey of life. This clarity doesn’t uncover all the details you need to finish the journey but it will give you a heads-up to start. In other words, whatever God has shown you is enough to start, clarity unfolds as you progress in the journey. (Deuteronomy 31:8)
How do I navigate through the journey of discovering ME?
1. Build a personal relationship with God
2. Read the word of God daily and meditate on it
3. Pray always and develop your spirit man.
4. Have a mentor or a spiritual parent to guide you on the journey
5. Stay committed to doing the will of God in every area of your life.
This year is such a strategic and special year! It is a year in which the enemy of your soul will want to fight your joy so much, and yet it is that year in which you must protect your joy so much!
God promises that your days of mourning are over. However, you must now make an effort to comply with that scripture.
Let’s look at the scriptures.
Isa 60:20 (KJV) Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.
Your days of mourning are over!
Mourning, as the scripture refers to it, encompasses broken relationships and the accompanying hurt and agony.
Unhappiness in relationships and sadness within a marriage, stemming from incessant quarrels and squabbles, are also part of this process.
Let’s take a look at The Message Translation.
Isa 60:20 (MSG) Your sun will never go down, your moon will never fade. I will be your eternal light. Your days of grieving are over.
I adore that phrase. Your days of mourning are behind you!
On your part, you’re now cooperating with the scripture by refusing depression and despondency in your life with every fiber of your being!
You must consciously cultivate the spirit of joy and prevent anything from trying to steal it from you!
This year is so pivotal that you can’t let anything dampen your joy!
You have a responsibility to safeguard that joy and keep it safe!
Why would you go to such lengths?
It’s your strength!
The joy of the Lord is your strength! Protect your place of strength and ensure its safety. This guarantees constant and unwavering victory in life and all other aspects of your existence!
The days of mourning are over!
If anything is causing grief at this moment, God Himself will intervene in Jesus’ name!
